The end of the year is officially behind us, and for many business owners, that means one thing: tax season is on its way. As entrepreneurs scramble to get their financial records in order, the demand for skilled accountants and bookkeepers will only continue to rise. If you’ve ever considered launching your own firm, there has never been a better time to start an accounting business.

At Universal Accounting Center, we believe in the mantra, “Accounting is universal,” because accounting is a cornerstone of every successful business. Whether it’s a tech startup, a local coffee shop, or a growing e-commerce brand, every business owner needs accurate bookkeeping and tax preparation to stay compliant and profitable. This universal need creates a massive opportunity for aspiring accountants to fill a vital role in the business world.

Here are three reasons why this is the ideal time to start an accounting business:

1. High Demand During Tax Season

Tax season is one of the busiest times of the year for small business owners. Many struggle to navigate the complexities of tax filings, deductions, and credits, often leaving them overwhelmed. This is where your expertise can make a difference. By starting an accounting business now, you can position yourself as a go-to resource for entrepreneurs who need help preparing their financial records and filing taxes accurately.

Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and many lack the resources to hire full-time accountants. This creates a growing market for independent accounting professionals who can provide affordable and reliable services. Whether it’s preparing tax returns or offering advice on maximizing deductions, your services will be in high demand.

2. A Universal Skill Set That Transcends Industries

Accounting isn’t just for one type of business or industry. From retail to real estate, every entrepreneur needs to understand what’s propping up or dragging down their bottom line. By starting an accounting business, you can offer services that benefit clients across various sectors, making your skill set universally valuable.

This time of year, businesses are closing their books, reviewing their financial performance, and planning for the year ahead. Your expertise can help them identify opportunities for growth, avoid costly mistakes, and set realistic financial goals.

3. A Flexible and Scalable Business Model

One of the best things about starting an accounting business is the flexibility it offers. You can start small, working from home and serving a handful of clients, and gradually scale your business as demand grows. With the right systems in place, such as cloud-based accounting software and efficient workflows, you can manage multiple clients without sacrificing quality.

This scalability is especially important during tax season when demand peaks. By building your client base now, you can establish long-term relationships that extend beyond tax preparation into year-round services like bookkeeping, payroll, and financial consulting.

Steps for Starting an Accounting Business

If you’re ready to start an accounting business, the first step is to equip yourself with the right tools and knowledge. At Universal Accounting Center, we specialize in training aspiring accountants and bookkeepers with turnkey systems designed to help you launch and grow your firm. From mastering the basics of bookkeeping to understanding tax preparation and marketing your services, we provide everything you need to succeed.

Why Wait? Start an Accounting Business Today

As tax season heats up, small business owners need skilled professionals more than ever. By starting an accounting business now, you can tap into this high-demand market and build a rewarding career helping entrepreneurs achieve financial clarity and success.

Remember: accounting is universal. It’s the language of business, and it’s your ticket to making a meaningful impact while creating a thriving business of your own. Don’t wait—start your accounting business today and make this tax season the beginning of something extraordinary.

Contact Universal Accounting Center to Get Started

Ready to take the first step? Contact Universal Accounting Center today to learn how we can help you start an accounting business that thrives. Call us at 435-344-2060 to speak with our team and discover the tools and training you need to succeed, or schedule a time to discuss your future with our team here. Let’s make your accounting business dreams a reality!

In the dynamic world of business, accountants play a vital role as the cornerstone of organizational success. Yet, the career of an accountant encompasses much more than figures and ledgers; it is a tale of passion, vision, and an unwavering dedication to achieving greatness.

This narrative is epitomized by Roger Knecht, the president of Universal Accounting Center, whose journey has significantly shaped both his career and the institution’s future.

Roger dove into the steps of his legacy and career on his podcast, Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Watch or listen to the episode in full here.

Mastering Life and Business: Roger Knecht’s Philosophy

Roger Knecht’s extensive 25-year experience is a testament to his philosophy of balancing personal and professional life, akin to the two wheels of a bicycle that must move in harmony. He emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing meaningful endeavors, working diligently, and allowing time for personal rejuvenation. This approach ensures not only a prosperous career but also a fulfilling personal life.

Roger’s career illustrates the importance of self-assessment in managing professional responsibilities. By fostering personal interests, maintaining health, and nurturing relationships, accountants can thrive in their roles, as Roger has demonstrated. His holistic approach underscores the need for balance between professional demands and personal well-being.

Transforming Universal Accounting: Roger’s Vision

Reflecting on his transformative 25-year tenure at Universal Accounting, Roger Knecht narrates the pivotal shift from traditional classroom settings to the innovative realm of online education. This evolution was more than a mere change in teaching method; it was a revolution in educational accessibility and perception. By harnessing telemarketing and recorded courses, Universal Accounting expanded its reach, becoming a prominent national and international training provider.

Under Roger’s leadership, the transition to online education resulted in increased enrollments and diversified course offerings, showcasing the power of innovation and adaptability. As president, his commitment to goal-driven management and transparent financial communication has been instrumental in the company’s growth.

Leading with Vision and Innovation

Roger Knecht’s ascent to the presidency of Universal Accounting was both unexpected and well-earned, fueled by his relentless pursuit of innovation. His journey highlights the importance of setting clear goals, celebrating successes, and fostering effective communication within an organization. Roger’s leadership exemplifies how strategic vision and innovation can elevate a company to global recognition.

Advocating for a Debt-Free Philosophy

In financial management, Roger Knecht champions a debt-free philosophy as a pathway to financial stability and peace of mind. By steering clear of unnecessary debt, professionals can concentrate on growth and investment in both personal and professional domains. This philosophy not only supports individual well-being but also fortifies organizational stability.

The Challenge of Leadership

In the dynamic realm of business, stepping into a leadership position often resembles walking a tightrope, where exhilaration meets self-doubt. This is the remarkable journey of Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center, whose career is a testament to transformative leadership and visionary innovation.

Facing Imposter Syndrome

Upon taking the helm at Universal Accounting Center, Roger Knecht confronted the familiar specter of imposter syndrome. Despite his new role, he grappled with uncertainty—questioning his capacity to lead effectively. Guided by mentors like Alan, Roger embraced the notion that leadership transcends having all the answers; it is about a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Cultivating a Thriving Work Environment

The path was fraught with challenges. Early on, Roger faced employees testing the boundaries of his leadership. To cultivate a thriving work environment, he shifted his focus towards accountability and discipline. This approach was not about asserting authority but about establishing clear expectations and fostering a culture of responsibility.

Professional Development and Lifelong Learning

Interestingly, despite not having formal accounting credentials, Roger led an accounting school. This experience underscored the significance of professional development and lifelong learning. Engaging with industry experts and attending conferences became vital for staying ahead of industry trends.

Managing by Numbers

A pivotal strategy Roger implemented was managing by numbers, which fostered team accountability and transparency. Although initially daunting, this approach proved crucial, particularly during the transition to remote work. It unlocked new avenues for collaboration and revealed untapped potential within the team.

Confidence and Innovation

Embracing the mantra of “fake it till you make it,” Roger developed a confidence that was both genuine and inspiring. This mindset was instrumental in co-authoring influential books like “In the Black” and “Red to Black,” which encapsulated the principles of business transformation and received widespread acclaim.

Cultural Transformation and the STAR Program

The shift from negative to positive cash flow was more than a financial turnaround; it signaled a cultural transformation. By establishing an effective business model and instilling accountability in leadership, Roger reshaped the company’s ethos. The introduction of the STAR program—Standards, Trust, Acknowledgment, and Recognition—played a pivotal role in enhancing performance and accountability.

CFO Advisory Services

As a business coach, Roger identified a gap in the accounting profession’s service delivery, leading to the creation of CFO advisory services. This initiative empowered clients to articulate their business purpose, understand financial metrics, and boost revenue and profits. It transcended numbers, building businesses into valuable, sellable assets.

Training the Next Generation of Advisors

To meet the rising demand for advisory roles, Roger spearheaded the development of a profit and growth expert training program. This initiative equipped students with practical strategies, enabling them to confidently transition into advisory positions.

Inspiration and Continuous Improvement

Roger Knecht’s career at Universal Accounting Center exemplifies relentless learning, strategic innovation, and unwavering dedication. His journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that leadership is about continuous improvement. Embrace challenges, and your greatest obstacles may become your most valuable teachers.

Listen to Roger Knecht’s Story

We invite you to explore the remarkable career and enduring legacy of Roger Knecht by listening to our podcast episode, where he shares his journey and insights. Engage in this enriching conversation and discover how Roger’s transformative approach to accounting education can inspire your own professional path.

Roger Knecht’s career is a beacon of passion, balance, and strategic innovation. By prioritizing growth, embracing technological advancements, and practicing financial prudence, accountants can significantly influence the future of business. Join us in this enlightening discussion and become part of a journey that promises success and fulfillment.

For a deeper dive into Roger Knecht’s career and legacy, listen to his insightful discussion on the latest podcast episode, where he shares more about his transformative journey and the impact of his leadership at Universal Accounting Center.

On December 27, 2024, Bench Accounting, a Vancouver-based fintech company specializing in online bookkeeping services for small businesses, announced its sudden closure. This unexpected development has left approximately 11,000 small business clients scrambling to access their financial data and find alternative bookkeeping solutions. As a financial consultant, I’ll break down the implications of this closure, explore why Bench failed, and highlight why providing high-quality bookkeeping services is more critical than ever for accounting business owners.

The Immediate Impact on Small Business Owners

For many small business owners, Bench was a trusted partner in managing financial records, producing monthly reports, and preparing for tax season. With the platform now inaccessible, clients face several challenges:

1. Data Accessibility: Bench’s abrupt shutdown has left clients without immediate access to critical financial data, complicating year-end reporting and tax preparation.
2. Service Transition: Finding a replacement service during a crucial financial period is both stressful and time-consuming.
3. Trust Erosion: The sudden closure has eroded trust in outsourced bookkeeping solutions, prompting many to reconsider their reliance on third-party services.

Why Did Bench Fail?

Bench’s closure was sudden, but signs of trouble had been brewing for some time. Here are the key factors contributing to its downfall:

1. Client Dissatisfaction with AI and Offshore Services: In recent years, Bench increasingly relied on AI-driven processes and offshore support to scale its operations. While this reduced costs, it often resulted in inaccurate categorizations and a lack of personalized service, leading to client dissatisfaction.
2. Leadership Changes: The departure of co-founder and former CEO Ian Crosby in 2021 signaled internal strategic disagreements that may have destabilized the company’s direction (GeekWire).
3. Funding Challenges: Despite raising over $100 million in venture capital, Bench struggled to achieve sustainable profitability. Scaling a bookkeeping service while maintaining quality proved challenging.
4. Operational Complexity: Balancing human bookkeepers, AI, and offshore teams created operational inefficiencies that likely contributed to escalating costs and declining service quality.

The Importance of High-Quality Bookkeeping Services

In the wake of Bench’s closure, the demand for reliable, high-quality bookkeeping services has never been greater. Here’s why:

1. Rebuilding Trust: Small business owners need assurance that their financial data is secure and managed by experienced professionals. Providing personalized, accurate, and responsive service is key to earning that trust.
2. Compliance and Accuracy: With tax season approaching, businesses must ensure their financial records are accurate and compliant with regulations. High-quality bookkeeping services help mitigate the risk of audits and penalties.
3. Competitive Advantage: For accounting firms, Bench’s closure represents an opportunity to capture market share by offering superior services. Emphasizing transparency, reliability, and client-centric solutions can differentiate your business.
4. Technology Integration: While AI and automation can enhance efficiency, they must be implemented thoughtfully. Striking the right balance between technology and human expertise ensures accuracy and client satisfaction.

Steps for Small Business Owners

If you’re a small business owner affected by Bench’s closure, here’s what you can do:

1. Retrieve Your Data: If possible, download any available financial records from Bench’s platform immediately.
2. Explore Alternatives: Consider services like QuickBooks, Xero, or hiring a local bookkeeper to manage your finances.
3. Vet New Providers: Ensure your next bookkeeping service offers transparency, personalized support, and secure data management.
4. Plan for the Future: Use this experience to reassess your financial management strategy and prioritize long-term reliability over short-term convenience.

Conclusion

The closure of Bench Accounting serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of scaling bookkeeping services while maintaining quality. For small business owners, it’s a reminder to choose financial partners carefully. For accounting businesses, it’s an opportunity to step up and fill the gap with exceptional service. By focusing on trust, accuracy, and client satisfaction, you can turn this disruption into a chance to build lasting relationships and grow your business.

If you’re ready to take your bookkeeping skills to the next level and meet the demand for high-quality accounting services, consider enrolling in the Universal Accounting Center’s Professional Bookkeeper course. This comprehensive program equips you with the skills and confidence to deliver exceptional service as a bookkeeper and build a thriving business. Call 435-344-2060 today to learn more and start your journey toward professional excellence.

Sources:

• GeekWire: Vancouver Fintech Company Bench Accounting Announces Sudden Shutdown
• Bench Accounting Official Website
• Finance Yahoo: Bench Shuts Down, Leaving Thousands Scrambling
• OpenTools AI: Shock as Vancouver’s Bench Accounting Closes Doors

When Sean Duncan, CEO of SMD Consulting & Accounting, was growing up, he was dead set on finding a career where his work, in his words, “mattered.”

He was dead set on becoming an FBI agent. As he went through the qualification process, Duncan suffered a devastating ankle injury during a training exercise.

It threw his life into chaos. His wife asked him, “What does this mean for our family?”

Duncan and his wife hadn’t had children yet, so he had to think hard about his answer.

“I went, ‘Oh, no, I want to be a husband and father more than I want to chase bad guys,'” Duncan replied.

What mattered most to him had changed. It set in that even if he recovered and attempted to qualify again, working as an FBI agent would take too much time away from his future family.

He withdrew his application and started to work in tax preparation, but was still feeling unfulfilled.

“I was 30 years old with a master’s degree in accounting that I did not want. What do you do with your life? Do I go back to school and start all over again? Like, what’s going to happen?” he said.

He took two years “of being a completely lost soul” before he realized that the reason he was so committed to being an FBI agent was because he wanted to do work that mattered. He could still fulfil that goal if he prioritized working with small business owners as an advisor to help them achieve their dreams.

He started SMD Consulting & Accounting in 2006, making it one of the very first advisory focused firms in America, and never looked back. By 2017 he was the largest firm in Frisco, Texas.

Duncan recounted his journey into the world of advisory and laid out the path for other accounting professionals to follow in his presentation at GrowCon 2024 on May 6. Duncan was one of 13 industry insiders who shared their insights with hundreds of accounting business owners at the conference, held in the SouthBank Hotel in Jacksonville, Florida.

If you weren’t able to join us in Florida, then you’re in luck. Today, we’ll look at the highlights from Duncan’s presentation. If you’d like to hear his presentation, as well the other 12 presenters from GrowCon 2024, in full, you can access the all of presentations from both days of GrowCon here.

From Injury to Insight: A Career Reimagined

For many, a career-ending injury might spell disaster, but for Duncan, it was the catalyst for a remarkable transformation—from aspiring FBI agent to a pioneering accountant and consultant. This journey, marked by introspection and innovation, culminated in the creation of SMD Consulting and Accounting in 2006, a firm that has since redefined what it means to provide financial services.

During his time working in the tax preparation firm after his injury, Duncan would often hear from clients who would ask him for advice. But the firm only did taxes and audits. The consulting services they offered were far too expensive for small businesses.

“I made this crazy statement, ‘Somebody really should start a small firm that helps the small business owner with advice,” he recalled. “If you ever hear yourself say somebody should [do something], it probably means this is about what you’re going to do.”

His firm was a smashing success. He found himself pulling 90 hour work weeks to grow the practice. One weekend, during tax season, he was pounding away at his keyboard when his wife sent him a photo of her with the kids at Six Flags.

“I had turned down the FBI for kids I didn’t have,” Duncan said. “And now I’m not with the kids I do have, because, you see, I turned into every other stinking CPA firm.” It was tax season.”

This was the spark for a transformative pivot—moving away from traditional tax services to a model focused on advisory services, fixed fees, and value pricing.

“I was successful by the metrics we were taught. I was a failure as a human for my purpose. My goal was to be there to help other people. And all I was doing was pounding out tax returns,” Duncan said.

Reimagining the Client Experience

Duncan decided that in order to keep true to his purpose and set his firm on the path to long term success, he needed to focus their services more on advisory.

What sets SMD Consulting and Accounting apart is its innovative approach to aligning professional services with personal passions. By targeting niche markets like the medical and gaming sectors, the firm has crafted bespoke services that resonate deeply with clients. Emphasizing the importance of work-life balance, the firm encourages strategic planning sessions in distraction-free environments. The idea? Treat yourself as a client worth investing in.

The firm doesn’t just stop at traditional accounting services. It delves into business consulting topics like exit planning, mergers and acquisitions, and nonprofit consulting. By emphasizing the importance of referrals and the value of services—especially for S Corporation elections—the firm demonstrates its commitment to offering comprehensive solutions. Fixed fee structures and efficient workflows, supported by tools like ADP’s Account Connect and RC Reports, ensure that clients receive unparalleled service.

Advisory services brought incredible benefits to Duncan’s life. He was earning more for shorter hours and was able to spend more time with his family. Duncan found that entrepreneurs crave advice, creating a massive demand for professionals who can clearly communicate strategies for growth in small businesses.

Focusing on advisory allowed Duncan to step away from working directly with clients, though sometimes new clients still insist on speaking with him. Duncan recounted an experience with an entrepreneur who demanded to meet with him, even after Duncan warned him that because of his role overseeing the business, he wouldn’t do much of any preparation work.

The two spent the first 30 minutes of the conversation discussing ways to get the most out of a Disneyworld trip. Duncan then suggested strategies which saved the business owner $30,000, but when the meeting ended, all the business owner talked about was Disney. Duncan shared the story to emphasize that, in advisory, you can really choose the clients who you work with, while bringing in huge revenue. As an avid lover of video games, Duncan has enjoyed working with video game development companies.

The “Love Hate List” and Other Strategies for Success

To refine business operations, Duncan advocates using a “Love Hate List” to pinpoint tasks for delegation, thus boosting efficiency and revenue. You list the things you like doing at your business and the things you hate, and whatever ends up on that hate list is something you should probably delegate out.

The transition to a subscription-based model for advisory services replaced the traditional hourly billing, reflecting a broader industry trend towards predictable, value-based pricing. Opportunities abound in the financial and advisory sectors, particularly when integrating technology and diversifying services to include business coaching and legal advice.

The Art of Business Reinvention

Duncan’s story is a testament to the power of self-reflection and adaptability in the face of adversity. By embracing change and valuing strategic planning, SMD Consulting and Accounting has carved out a niche in the competitive world of accounting. The firm’s commitment to innovative pricing models, team development, and client-focused services offers a blueprint for others looking to revitalize their own practices.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a small business owner, or someone contemplating a career shift, this journey offers valuable insights into the art of business reinvention. It’s not just about finding a new path; it’s about forging one that aligns with your passions and values, creating a fulfilling and prosperous future.

Access Sean’s Full Presentation (and the other 12) from GrowCon 2024

The tips shared in this article are truly the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the amount of game changing insights that presenters shared at GrowCon. Each speaker shared valuable insights for running an accounting business, from building wealth, optimizing the day-to-day processes of the business, and beyond.

Fortunately, you can access the full collection of presentations virtually for just $197. Purchase the complete list of presentations at both days of GrowCon at this link.

And remember that GrowCon 2025 will be held from May 5 to 7 at the Utah Valley Convention Center. Marriott Provo will be the host hotel for the event.

To learn more and register for this can’t miss event for owners of accounting businesses, follow this link.

The lineup of speakers will include experts in tax planning, business development, and client advisory services. Check out highlights from previous GrowCons for free here.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Thank you to all of the speakers who shared their incredible insights at GrowCon 2024 in Jacksonville, Florida. We are extremely excited for GrowCon 2025 in Provo, Utah.

To learn more about how you can start your own accounting business, improve your services, or train your employees, call Universal Accounting at 435-344-2060. Or schedule a time to discuss your future online using this calendar:

It seems like all anyone wants to talk about in the world of accounting these days is the role artificial intelligence will have in the future of the industry.

The rise of generative language models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT opens a new world of possibilities for accounting firms. That’s definitely an exciting thought, but as with anything new, it’s also causing some major concern for professionals.

As the industry faces a major staffing crunch with a workforce approaching retirement age en masse and few college students lining up to replace them, one can’t help but wonder: Is AI going to replace my job?

This new technology could present problems for older members of the workforce, too, right? Can they keep up with the constantly evolving tools?

Well, if you’re concerned about the future of AI in accounting, you’re in luck. Alison Ball, VP of Marketing and Communication for Bookkeep, said that the ideas presented in the last two paragraphs are merely myths.

Ball expertly dispelled these myths about AI & tech evolution in the accounting realm and many others during her presentation at GrowCon 2024 on May 6. Ball was one of 13 industry insiders who shared their insights with hundreds of accounting business owners at the conference, held in the SouthBank Hotel in Jacksonville, Florida.

If you weren’t able to join us in Florida, then don’t stress. Today, we’ll look at the highlights from Ball’s presentation. If you’d like to hear her presentation, as well the other 12 presenters from GrowCon 2024, in full, you can access the all of presentations from both days of GrowCon here.

Let’s take a look at some of the key concepts from Ball’s presentation on embracing change in the world of AI:

The Role of the “Change Profile”

Change can be a bit of a scary concept, right? Both for the leaders of a firm and for the employees, implementing new technology and processes comes with a ton of frustration. You can’t expect anything to go 100% smoothly when you’re moving things around.

No matter how we may feel about upcoming change, Ball said, change is inevitable in all aspects of life.

That’s why it’s key for leaders who are considering changing things up at the company need to consider a concept that Ball called the “Change Profile.” Essentially, everyone has their own innate tolerance and excitement for new experiences. Some folks love trying new things and are willing to brave wade through any complications that may arise.

On the other hand, some folks don’t thrive in the face of change. It’s important that leadership selects people from both pools, those who love change and those who don’t, when setting up task forces for future projects, Ball said. This is because you need people who are passionate about bringing about the change and pushing things forward, but it’s important to have empathy for those who find the updated processes to be confusing. Those who don’t like change are great at evaluating if the change is actually beneficial to the company, Ball noted.

Hacks for Building Resiliency in the Face of Change

While everyone has their own change profile, that doesn’t mean that we can’t build our tolerance for change over time. It’s not a wholly inherent skill, Ball said.

The only way to build lasting resiliency is to overcome adversity, Ball said. That doesn’t necessarily mean a personal challenge, though, because we’re all facing challenges all the time. Ball said the key is choosing what to focus on.

Ball recounted the devastating feelings she felt when she was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago. She found that in the face of so much uncertainty in her life, the thing that made her feel the best was focusing on what she could control. The temptation to wonder about whether she’d live or die only weighed on her mind and body more. She focused instead on having good days and enjoying the moments that brought joy to her life.

So, in the face of adversity, where your hone your focus to is crucial. Here are the three “hacks” Ball recommended for building resiliency:

• Use this mental framework when your mind wants to jump to conclusions about an uncertain situation: “That’s not true because _________.” Ball recommends avoiding the “ladder of inference”, where your mind may fill in negative details about an interaction that aren’t necessarily worth being concerned over. Ball used an example of a time where one of her employees gave her a sour look after Ball had assigned her a new task. Ball jumped to the conclusion that something in the relationship with her employee was off, and before long the employee would be so unhappy they’d leave the company. After using the framework, Ball realized that the employee had shown in other contexts that they were energized by taking on new projects and had voiced a desire to take on more. She combatted the spiraling her mind wanted to indulge in by just doing the thought exercise. What if that thing your mind is telling is not true?
• Rather than ruminating on the potential fallout of a choice you made, use this mental framework: “If [this] happens, then I will do [that].” You don’t need to have an infinite number of solutions for an infinite number of problems in your head. If something is really weighing on you, do this thought exercise to keep from spinning in circles wondering what could happen.
• Choose where you focus. Ball recounted a Ted talk she heard from a woman who had lost her son in a car crash. She spiraled into a deep despair that almost cost her her job. The only thing that pulled her out of it was choosing to focus on the what she had: her husband and the other children had survived the crash. Choosing to place your focus on the good things in your life isn’t doing the bad thing a disservice, you’re just channeling your energy toward what matters most going forward, Ball said.

How to Have Good Days – Building Your System

If you want to bring about a change in your life, you’ll probably have the most success if you build a plan for that change, Ball said. Stacking multiple good days in a row doesn’t happen by accident.

Ball offered three tips for building a system for having good days:

• Don’t fight your human biology. A key element of this, Ball said, is that the concept of multitasking doesn’t really exist. You can’t dedicate your full attention to multiple things at once, studies show. Allow yourself to focus deeply on one task at a time.
• Tame digital distractions so everyone can focus. Opening up Instagram while working on another task causes your brain to take around 20 minutes to get back to the original task, Ball said. Turn your phone off or on silent when it’s time to focus.
• Make movement part of your work culture. Part of not fighting your biology is embracing movement. She encourages her staff to take a walk during their regular meetings, and said that taking a short walk or stretching break is like sharpening your axe in the forest. Sure, you could sit there and hack away at a project forever, but stopping for a movement break will make you work more efficiently.

“Your Future is Created By What You Do Today, Not Tomorrow.”

Access Alison’s Full Presentation (and the other 12) from GrowCon 2024

The tips shared in this article are truly the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the amount of game changing insights that presenters shared at GrowCon. Each speaker shared valuable insights for running an accounting business, from building wealth, optimizing the day-to-day processes of the business, and beyond.

Fortunately, you can access the full collection of presentations virtually for just $197. Purchase the complete list of presentations at both days of GrowCon at this link.

And remember that GrowCon 2025 will be held from May 5 to 7 at the Utah Valley Convention Center. Marriott Provo will be the host hotel for the event.

To learn more and register for this can’t miss event for owners of accounting businesses, follow this link.

The lineup of speakers will include experts in tax planning, business development, and client advisory services. Check out highlights from previous GrowCons for free here.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Thank you to all of the speakers who shared their incredible insights at GrowCon 2024 in Jacksonville, Florida. We are extremely excited for GrowCon 2025 in Provo, Utah.

To learn more about how you can start your own accounting business, improve your services, or train your employees, call Universal Accounting at 435-344-2060. Or schedule a time to discuss your future online using this calendar: